Hello, this is Ashley Sikes (61). A lot of you may know me from school in Orlando back in the day and others I've met in life along the way. Some of you may not know me at all. I would never have imagined using a platform such as Gofundme for any type of support. I definitely have hit rock bottom with parts of my life; my situation is serious. Just recently I experienced a moment where I lost everything, some dignity, my home, my savings, my car, my income, health insurance, and my dog Dyggur who I have now reunited with (thank God).

I have also had some troubling health issues which I was totally unaware of. During a recent stay in the hospital, I was diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation (AFib) brought on by uncontrolled hypertension, a significant trigger for AFib. High blood pressure generally has no signs whereas AFib symptoms are very noticeable. The impact of this condition has had a significant toll on my life and health. Hypertension can be controlled and lowered while AFib will most likely never go away on its own but also can be managed. Regular monitoring and adherence to treatment recommendations will become crucial in treating my condition. Until I find work, this is going to be very difficult. I’m doing some real soul searching right now, I will need to adapt to a new lifestyle to include changing my diet, sobriety, exercise, as well as plenty of rest and sleep.

My reasons for being here and requesting support leaves me with a heavy heart as well as a loss of some dignity and much embarrassment. I have never needed this kind of support from anyone. I have a long road in front of me, financially, emotionally, as well as trying to become healthy again. Like many of us I don’t have much time to get there.

I have found a place for my dog and I to stay for now and I am currently looking for work. Hopefully I find something soon. My rent is due on the 1st of August. I still live in Florida and looking for remote work until my health gets better, if you know of any work that I can do, please reach out to me. Any donations would be used for immediate needs, food, rent, my dog Dyggur, medical, and transportation. I’m sure that within a few months I’ll be back on my feet.

Any kind generosity would be greatly appreciated and very meaningful to my future. I would also like to ask you to share my situation with those in our circle of friends, associates and family members. It has been very hard for me to initiate such and effort, from the bottom of my heart I want to thank you. Thank you for any kindness you may have towards my cause, financially or emotionally (a friend to talk to). I know life is not easy for any of us, so again thank you. I promise to keep everyone posted and updated regularly about any progress. Also, if you want to know more of my story, I am happy to talk with any of you, just call on Messanger or DM me.

Thank you again and God Bless!

Ashley Sikes